THE VISAYAS State University awarded 11 agriculture workers for their help in yielding produce for the community.

Led by the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension and Innovation, the 11 were awarded in a face-to-face ceremony during VSU’s 98th Founding Anniversary.

“[The] event is VSU’s way to honor farmers, fishermen, and rainforest heroes who have not only increased farm output but also created an impact on their respective communities,” VSU said.

“The event also provided an opportunity for farmers and fishermen to come together and hear each other’s inspiring and unique stories to motivate them in tilling their farms and make it even more productive in the many years to come,” it added.

Each awardee received P10,000 and a plaque of recognition. Meanwhile, the Outstanding Farmers Cooperative, Outstanding Fisherfolks Association and Outstanding Farmer-Entrepreneur received P30,000 each.

The awardees were Maria Avelina Virrey for Outstanding Vegetable Farmer, Laila Peterson for Outstanding Livestock Farmer, Jose Tempesto Tan for Outstanding Rice Farmer, Alicia Baguion for Outstanding Jackfruit Farmer, Gravela Rele for Outstanding Corn Farmer, Keith Vincent for Outstanding Aqua culturist, Mae Riediger for Outstanding Farmer-Entrepreneur, Romeo Gutang and Nemesio Denson Fuentes for Rainforest Hero Award.

The Kawayan Farmers and Fisherfolks Association was declared Outstanding Fisherfold Organization, while the Kasanag Farmer-Irrigators Multipurpose Cooperative won the Outstanding Farmer Cooperative award.